George Street relocation discussed

Published 7:00 pm, Tuesday, January 16, 2007

By Tony Lascari

Midland's City Council wanted to know more Monday night about the Midland Community Center's request to relocate a portion of George Street.

The center's request was presented to the council as part of the city's proposed 2007-08 road, sewer and water projects. The road, sewer and water program is expected to reach almost $4.7 million, in addition to projects that would use funding from previous years.

The center requested $150,000 toward the $300,000 road change portion of its project.

City Engineer Brian McManus said the center wants to improve pedestrian safety.

"This has been a constant concern I know for the community center and the city over a number of years," he said.

The plan would shift George Street south just east of State Street, allowing the center to move its parking lot adjacent to its building. The new street would run along the rear of the current parking lot and connect to Jefferson Avenue near Haley Street.

Mayor Bruce Johnson wanted to know about a timeline, since fund-raising efforts for the center's overall project - which could cost $3 million - are just beginning.

Center Chief Executive Officer Chris Tointon said the road could be shifted any time the city is ready, while fundraising for other changes will be ongoing.

Midland resident Larry Pillepich said he doesn't want the city's money going toward what he sees as a private project. He said it's pretty clear to pedestrians and drivers that there is a crosswalk, and the only confusion is who should have the right of way at the crossing.

"I think the hazard is a little bit overrated," he said.

He said crossing lights or stop signs could be installed at a lower cost than what is proposed.

Councilman Hollis McKeag echoed those thoughts, and said he hopes the center has a good reason behind the changes besides safety since less expensive solutions might correct issues.

Tointon said safety is a real concern, with cars nearly hitting pedestrians at the crossing.

"The safety issue is really the major issue we're asking for collaboration on from you," Tointon said.

He said the road shift is part of the center's larger plan to move parking closer to its facility and improve the neighborhood.

While the total number of parking spaces would remain about the same, spaces would be added near the seniors' wing, day care and for people with disabilities. Also in the center's plan is adding an outdoor basketball court, pathways and a park area.

Tointon said it's important to get community input to make sure it's the right fix.

McManus said the plan would go through a design review by the city and traffic consultants to determine the best street configuration, since traffic on Jefferson, Haley, Mills and other streets could be impacted. He also said moving forward with the project would require future council consideration.

The request moves forward with other projects to a February meeting, when the council will consider including the projects in the 2007-08 budget.